This legislation raises serious questions about what drives the decision making of the Rees government. It is my observation that more than ever before, this Government is hyper-sensitive to media criticism, particularly from the Telegraph.
Premier Rees seems overly intent on being seen to act tough and decisively ..... to have a "red hot go". There will always be times when there is no option other than to act immediately, this legislation was not one of those times. Just days before the bill was introduced with the direction that it would be finalised that day (Thursday April 31), Nathan Rees had indicated that there was a need to make sure we got this right, and that it was more likely to be brought to Parliament in months. Did things really change that quickly or was this some "brilliant" strategy devised by his raft of advisers? As Baldrick would have said...... "Premier, I have a cunning plan".
I supported the legislation, even with my reservations. It was interesting to read subsequent media comments regarding concerns from the police that this legislation was rushed through leading to a conflict with Federal legislation which limits the NSW Police from being able to use listening devices. Fools rush in where Angels fear to tread. Perhaps the Premier's advisers should counsel drawing a deep breath before making decisions.
My contribution to the debate can be read on Hansard - www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LA20090402008
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